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Flavorful Spicy Paloma Mocktail

spicy Paloma mocktail - featured image

A bright and refreshing grapefruit mocktail with a spicy kick from jalapeño, perfect for warm days or any occasion. This easy-to-make drink balances tart citrus with subtle heat for a lively and exciting beverage without alcohol.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) simple syrup
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling water
  • Ice cubes
  • Salt (optional, for rimming the glass)

Instructions

  1. If desired, rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it into salt. Set aside to dry for about 2 minutes.
  2. Squeeze fresh grapefruit and lime juice into a measuring cup or small bowl, removing any seeds.
  3. Slice the jalapeño into thin rounds, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
  4. Place jalapeño slices at the bottom of the serving glass and muddle gently for about 10 seconds until aromatic.
  5. Pour 2 tablespoons of simple syrup over the muddled jalapeño and stir lightly to combine.
  6. Add the grapefruit and lime juice to the glass and stir gently to blend flavors.
  7. Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill the mixture.
  8. Top with 1 cup of sparkling water and give a final gentle stir.
  9. Garnish with a thin grapefruit wedge or jalapeño slice on the rim and serve immediately.

Notes

For a more pronounced jalapeño flavor, let the slices steep in the juice and syrup mixture for 5–10 minutes before adding ice and sparkling water. Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat. Freshly squeezed juice is recommended for best flavor. Simple syrup can be substituted with agave nectar or honey. Prepare the juice and syrup base ahead and refrigerate up to 4 hours; add ice and sparkling water just before serving to keep fizz.

Nutrition

Keywords: Paloma, mocktail, grapefruit, jalapeño, spicy drink, refreshing, non-alcoholic, summer drink